These spiders are truly amazing. They have some very unusual characteristics for a terrestrial spider such as very long front legs and they actually kick hairs from their pedipalps.
| Lifestyle | Fossorial |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | Up to 15cm |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Environment | Rainforest |
| Suitability | Experienced Keeper |
| Temperament | Aggressive |
The Skeleton tarantula is a medium sized tarantula which reaches a body size of 5-6cm. This attractive species has a black abdomen, black legs and a coffee coloured carapace. The striped markings on the Skeletons legs are similar to markings seen on an Aphonopelma seemani (Zebra Tarantula) and also have the same coffee colouration to the carapace which almost look golden after a moult.
Being New World species they do have urticating hairs but unlike some other species the hairs are located on the tarantula’s pedipalps. For them to flick the hairs they rub their palps against the chelicerae (located in front of the mouth).
Skeleton tarantulas originate from the humid forests areas of Northern Brazil, Guyana and Surinam.
With this species being fossorial they are found in burrows 6-8inches below ground. The burrows of a Skeleton tarantula are often noticeable due to the webbing around the entrance as this species do web a lot.
Due to their natural surroundings in Nothern Brazil this species are used to regular rainfall and should therefore be kept humid. Temperatures however shouldn’t really exceed 80F.
72F-77F (22C-25C) is an ideal temperature.
Depending on the scene you want to create for your Skeleton tarantula, set ups can vary from deep braplast plastic containers to a suitable sized glass enclosure. If you are unsure of the size enclosure you require for your Skeleton please feel free to call us for any advice. We offer a range of enclosures and full set ups for tarantulas that are juvenile size and above.
The best substrate to use would be either sedge peat, coco fibre or other soil based substrates. This substrate is the best for Skeletons as they can burrow easily without the burrows caving in on them and it’s the most natural.
A small water bowl should be provided on one side of the enclosure. To help with humidity levels occasionally misting one side of the enclosure or purposely over filling the water bowl so the water runs through the substrate will help. Doing this a few times a week is best, remember that Skeletons like to be kept humid but not damp.
Although this species don’t require high temperatures we do recommend a small low wattage heat mat for the side or underneath of the enclosure. When using any heat mat low or high wattage a thermostat is advised to help prevent the enclosure overheating.
Decor can be provided in the enclosure but thats all down to personal choice, we offer a range of decor including fake and real plants, cork bark and decor packs. (Please be sure to research any live plants to make sure they are safe for your tarantula.)
Skeletons tend not to be fussy eaters and can eat a variety of livefood including crickets, mealworms, locusts, roaches and more. We usually feed our tarantulas once a week on a couple of appropriately sized livefoods. Overfeeding your tarantula can lead to health problems including issues when moulting.
